u/Abandoned_Entity

I thrifted a PFAFF 1212 to my small but growing collection of old sewing machines but unfortunately it isn't in working condition (yet). When I tested it in the store I couldn't get any movement through the feed dogs or the upper mechanisms (I'm not savvy with terms 😅). Basically, it's all locked up and it won't move at all, even with me manually trying to rotate it. The motor at least seems to be working though. When it's switched to the bobbin winder it'll spin that like nothing. But when it's switched back it's still locked up. I can at least hear it responding to the foot pedal when I press it but that's it.

I figured for $10 it really couldn't hurt to tinker with but it's the first time I've really opened up a machine so I would really appreciate any tips/advice of what I should take a look at to get it running again.

I was recommended to make a post here after posting in the woodworking group 😅

Basically I'm trying to find a durable hardwood alternative to ebony to replace the finger board of a beat up cello I got a few years ago. I haven't really done enough woodworking to have the experience to figure out what could be used. Admittedly, I am pretty inexperienced with doing anything on an instrument (though I've done other projects). I would love to actually make this cello playable again, considering that the alternative was likely it being thrown away.

Unfortunately, the original finger board was beyond salvaging so I took it off but that's as far as I've gotten. In my area I can get oak, maple, and walnut. I have tried doing some digging but I really haven't been able to narrow down a popular alternative. I was leaning towards walnut, but I would appreciate any input from anybody who's also chosen less conventional woods for their instruments.

I got a broken cello like 2-3 years ago and I'm finally trying to work on it. It's mostly a 'for fun' thing, since I figured the alternative for it was being thrown away. But, if I can get it to a half-decent state I'll be pretty stoked.

So, basically, the fingerboard was busted and beyond salvage so I removed it completely before putting it away because I was too intimidated to get started beyond that. I'm looking for a durable alternative to replace the broken fingerboard. I thought about trying to source ebony online but I figured it could be interesting to try a different wood altogether. Aiming for something durable in case it actually ends up being playable again so it lasts a while. \

Honestly, I find the hardness charts a little hard to understand since I'm pretty new to working with wood and I've ended up being more indecisive than before. Locally, I can find Walnut, Oak, and Maple somewhat readily. I'm personally leaning towards Walnut but I would appreciate some input so I can narrow down my choices. I just haven't had a lot of hands-on experience to know which one holds up better over time.

Any input is greatly appreciated!